The basic rule is that the IRS can audit for three years after you file, but there are many exceptions that give the IRS six years or longer. For example, the three years is doubled to six if you omitted more than 25% of your income. The Supreme Court said 3 years was plenty for the IRS to audit.

What happens after a state tax audit?

After the audit We will notify you of the results of the audit in writing. You may receive one or more of the following: No Change letter that states we accepted your tax return as filed and you do not owe additional tax.

How long does your state have to audit your tax return?

An assessment means that the tax authority can review or audit the return and add additional taxes due when and if mistakes are uncovered. Taxes can also be assessed in Kansas up to one year after an amended return is filed if it’s filed later than the dates above. 2

How often does a tax preparation firm get audited?

With most tax preparation firms handling between 300 and 500 returns annually, it’s likely that at least one of your clients has been audited in the past or might be audited in the future − especially considering the IRS can audit returns for three years after the year the return was filed and sometimes up to six years for substantial errors.

Is there a statute of limitations on IRS audits?

The basic federal income tax statute of limitations is three years in most cases, though it is six years in a growing number of situations. The normal three years is measured from your actual filing date if you file on time or late.

Can a California tax return be audited forever?

Several things give the FTB an unlimited amount of time. First, California, like the IRS, gets unlimited time if you never file an income tax return. The same goes for false or fraudulent returns. Plus, suppose that an IRS audit changes your tax liability.